Youth Correctional Counselor Training

Youth Correctional Counselors (YCCs) must complete a sixteen-week, formal, comprehensive training program at the Basic Correctional Juvenile Academy (BCJA), located in Galt, a suburb of Sacramento. Cadets will attend classes five days a week and must pass all tests in order to graduate from the BCJA. The curriculum consists of 640 hours of training and ranks among the top correctional training academies in the country.

Using a combination of academic instruction, physical fitness training, use of force training, group interaction, communication skills, and experiential practicums in the facilities the academy seeks to instill the skills and experience needed to function in an institution setting, and to build esprit de corps among the cadets.  YCC cadets begin each day with a nutritious breakfast, then attend various academic courses, related to the specific functions of a Youth Correctional Counselor, such as:

• Peace Officer Standards and Training Courses (POST)
• Chemical agents
• Casework management special treatment needs
• Casework management
• Small/large group counseling
• Effective interaction
• Gang awareness
• Transportation
• Search techniques
• Crime personalities
• Drug awareness
• Use of force
• Disciplinary process
• Physical and mechanical restraints
• Victims of crime

Cadets receive continuous reinforcement with emphasis being placed on integrity, maturity, conduct, written and verbal communication skills, interactions, professionalism, and competency-based evaluations to demonstrate proficiency.

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Institution

In addition to the BCJA, the Apprenticeship Program, and an Orientation Program for new employees, all YCCs receive annual training on an on-going basis at his or her institution.

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Academy Dates

See a list of Academy dates for YCC and transition academies:

• Academy Dates